Annual Report 2010

2010 was a challenging but very rewarding year for the Ottawa chapter with the completion of the multi-year project of the Weehawk commemorative land plaque. The chapter executives, special functions and members have dedicated time and effort towards the successful erection of the commemorative land plaque. Special thanks goes out to the Townsip of Edwardsburgh-Cardinal, designer (Doug Grant) and Système Huntigndon that help make this project a great success. Also, the township of Edwardsburgh-Cardinal made a financial contribution to the chapter that was used for the replacement of the damaged buoy for the site of the Conestoga.

Chapter Chair and Executive

At the January meeting, the chapter re-elected the chapter chair (Luc Lafontaine) and treasurer & Secretary (Christopher Holloway), membership & web content (Jérôme Devost), Project coordinator (Fréderic Tremblay) and Weehawk project coordinator (Trista Lauzon).

Meetings

The chapter saw an increase of general membership meetings due to final preparations for the Weehawk project. The chapter had meetings in January, March, June, July, August, September, October and a well deserved x-mas party in December with good attendance between 12 and 15 at each meeting. The executive team also held several specific meeting to discuss projects, organizational direction and finances. All 2010 meetings were held at the Clocktower Brew Pub in Ottawa and we made arrangements with management to get a sponsorship based on purchases in order to build some funds for future projects.

Outreach

The executive continued to perform outreach to local dive shops/dive charters (Kanata Dive Supply, Divers Warehouse, Sharky's Scuba Supply, Wet Beavers Scuba Charters, Scuba Geek, Burton's Dive Shop and Ron's Scuba), dive forums and Facebook. The goals of our outreach is to promote S.O.S and maintain good relationships.

Membership

As of December 31st we were 45 members a decrease of 4 from 2009 statistics. Our membership coordinator will be busy renewing membership for the 26 members due for renewal this year. We have attempted to maintain or increase membership for the chapter with a membership challenge where a prize will be drawn amongst new members and referrals from existing members. Altho we have not achieved an increase in membership, current members are very engaged in meetings and projects.

Web site

Jérôme has been busy updating this web site with information regarding our activities and projects.

Future Projects

We currently finalizing the preparation of our annual web based survey to allow members the opportunity to voice their opinion on future projects.

Thank you.

I would like to thank every member who has contributed at the meetings and projects this year. Without people like you, the mission of the organization cannot be forwarded. In particular, I would like to thank my fellow executive and special function members for their on-going support.

SOS Ottawa Chairperson